letters to yourself.

On the eve of her 34th birthday, my friend wrote a letter to herself and read it out loud to my us at dinner last week. Holy empowering. We were both excited, clapping out loud in laughter and going to remind of her of what she read aloud on that patio.
I'm not sure where she got the idea from (probably Pinterest because isn't everything from Pinterest at this point?) but I was instantly inspired to think about what I would write to myself as I approach a birthday in the next six months. (I already have a party idea for the big 3-0.)

So, in early anticipation of a birthday that is six months out, I'm going to commit to a few items moving forward. After all, half the battle is saying it out loud, isn't it?

It was only a matter of time, you can't run from this. That pinch you feel in your chest, that is your body telling you that you need to deal with this. It is not going to get any easier. Prepare yourself for the moment that is around the corner. Soon they will tell you that they are out of options, that they can't help her anymore. I know that it's impossible to accept, but you have to be strong. She needs you, your family needs you. Don't be afraid to ask for help. You can't be of service to those around you if you are not taking care of yourself. Don't wait to get help! As things get worse it's just going to get harder to take care of yourself.

Keep these things in mind.

You are still young and you have the rest of your life in front of you.

Death comes to us all

Life is not fair, but it is still beautiful

Cancer can kill her, but it can't take away who she is.

Cherish the time you have left. Don't take even a moment for granted.

It will be okay, even if you don't think so.

Continue to enjoy your life, but there is a fine line between having fun and running away from your problems.

what a cute idea. and one that i might personally challenge myself to as well for my september birthday. i loved your "put pen to paper" note - ive had a dream to write and publish a childrens book. and its still something i want to actually accomplish!

Allison is a 30 year-old young professional living in downtown Cleveland. Lover of all things fashion, sparkles, pop culture and dirty martinis with blue cheese stuffed olives who speaks at a very fast rate with a slight Cleveland accent.